The Problem

Blackberry

Rubus fruticosus

What are Blackberries?

The plants comprise of stems or canes covered in prickles to deter animals (and humans!). The canes can grow up to 7 metres long, reaching out to touch and take root in new ground. The distinctive, tasty fruit is also an important key to identification.

It is one of those supremely successful weeds that employs a couple of different methods of spreading itself. Birds, of course, love the seeds that are enclosed within the tasty fruit. And the stems can take root whenever they touch the ground, so this pest plant can quickly expand into a huge clump.